U.S. Air Force

The 7th Squadron, 17th Air Cavalry was originally constituted on 1 March 1966 and activated during the Vietnam War as a part of the 17th Aviation Group. The squadron served with distinction, providing aerial reconnaissance, security, and support missions, most notably in Vietnam from 1967 to 1973. Throughout its history, the 7th Squadron flew a variety of helicopters, including the OH-6A Cayuse and AH-1 Cobra, exemplifying the Air Cavalry’s mobility and versatility. After Vietnam, the unit continued to serve in various capacities, including deployments in support of operations during the Gulf War and other contingencies, upholding its motto, "Out Front."

The 96th Supply Squadron was a vital logistics unit in the United States Air Force, originally activated during the post-World War II era. It played a key role in providing supply support to the 96th Bombardment Wing, ensuring the availability of critical materials, equipment, and munitions for strategic operations. Stationed primarily at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, the squadron supported various missions throughout the Cold War, contributing to the wing’s readiness and effectiveness. Over time, as the Air Force reorganized its logistics and support structures, the 96th Supply Squadron was eventually inactivated or redesignated, but its legacy of excellence in supply chain management endures.

AFSOUTH, or Allied Forces Southern Europe, was established in Naples, Italy, in 1951 as a major NATO headquarters responsible for the defense of Southern Europe during the Cold War. The command oversaw the coordination of land, sea, and air forces from member nations in the Mediterranean region, including Italy, Greece, and Turkey. Throughout its history, AFSOUTH played a key role in planning and executing NATO operations in the Balkans during the 1990s, such as peacekeeping missions in Bosnia and Kosovo. In 2004, AFSOUTH was reorganized and became Allied Joint Force Command Naples, continuing its vital mission of ensuring security and stability in southern Europe and beyond.

The Air Force Materiel Command (AFMC) was activated on July 1, 1992, following the consolidation of the Air Force Logistics Command and Air Force Systems Command. AFMC is headquartered at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, and is responsible for research, development, testing, acquisition, and sustainment of Air Force weapon systems. The command plays a crucial role in ensuring the readiness and technological superiority of the United States Air Force by managing everything from advanced research laboratories to global logistics centers. Over the years, AFMC has supported major operations and modernization efforts, ensuring that Airmen have the equipment and support necessary to accomplish their missions worldwide.

The Medical Group is a crucial component of military organizations, responsible for providing comprehensive medical support to service members in both peacetime and combat operations. Established in various forms across the world’s armed forces, Medical Groups have evolved from simple field aid stations to sophisticated units capable of advanced trauma care, preventive medicine, and evacuation. During major conflicts such as World War II and the Korean War, Medical Groups played a vital role in reducing battlefield mortality through rapid response and innovative medical techniques. Today, they continue to adapt, integrating new technologies and practices to ensure the health and readiness of military personnel worldwide.

The United States Air Force Band was established on September 24, 1941, at Bolling Field in Washington, D.C. Its primary mission has been to provide musical support for official military, diplomatic, and community events, serving as a key element in Air Force public relations and morale. Over the decades, the Band has performed at presidential inaugurations, state funerals, and international events, earning a reputation for excellence and versatility. The USAF Band continues to represent the professionalism and heritage of the Air Force through its worldwide performances and outreach programs.

The 109th Airlift Wing (109th AW) is a unit of the New York Air National Guard, stationed at Stratton Air National Guard Base in Scotia, New York. Established in 1948 as the 109th Fighter Group, it transitioned to airlift missions in the 1960s and became renowned for operating the LC-130 Hercules, the only ski-equipped aircraft in the U.S. military. The 109th AW’s unique capabilities support missions in polar regions, particularly providing vital airlift for the National Science Foundation’s research operations in Antarctica and Greenland as part of Operation Deep Freeze. Over the decades, the unit has also contributed to humanitarian relief and domestic emergency responses, cementing its reputation for versatility and excellence.

The 1155th Technical Operations Squadron (1155th Tech Ops) was a United States Air Force unit established during the Cold War era. Activated in the late 1950s, the squadron specialized in radiological monitoring, nuclear weapons accident response, and hazardous materials detection. Throughout its service, the 1155th Tech Ops played a crucial role in supporting national defense by ensuring the safety and security of nuclear operations at various installations. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational changes and technological advancements in Air Force technical operations.

The 118th Wing, based at Berry Field Air National Guard Base in Nashville, Tennessee, traces its origins to the 118th Observation Squadron established in 1921. The unit served with distinction during World War II, flying combat and reconnaissance missions in the European Theater. Over the decades, the 118th underwent several mission changes, operating as a fighter, airlift, and intelligence wing. Today, the 118th Wing specializes in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, supporting both state and federal operations.

The 121st Supply Squadron (121st Supply Sq.) was a critical logistics unit responsible for providing supply and materiel support to its parent wing, historically part of the Air National Guard. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron ensured the effective management and distribution of supplies, equipment, and spare parts necessary for sustaining flight and ground operations. Over the decades, the 121st Supply Sq. supported various overseas deployments and domestic missions, adapting to evolving logistics technologies and procedures. Its dedication to mission readiness contributed significantly to the operational success of its wing and the broader United States Air Force.

The 1973rd Communications Squadron was a unit of the United States Air Force responsible for providing vital communications support to operations in its assigned region. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron played a crucial role in maintaining secure and reliable communication links for command and control, particularly in overseas or forward-deployed locations. Throughout its service, the 1973rd Communications Squadron supported various Air Force missions, contributing to the effectiveness and readiness of U.S. military forces. The unit was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader communications and organizational restructuring within the Air Force.

The 1st Maintenance Battalion is a United States Marine Corps unit based at Camp Pendleton, California, and is part of the 1st Marine Logistics Group. Activated during World War II in 1947, the battalion has provided critical intermediate-level maintenance support for ground equipment, vehicles, and weapon systems. Over the decades, the 1st Maintenance Battalion has supported major operations including the Korean War, Vietnam War, Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Its mission remains vital: ensuring the operational readiness and sustainability of Marine forces through expert maintenance and logistical support.

The 201st RED HORSE Squadron is a specialized civil engineering unit of the United States Air Force, part of the Air National Guard. Established in 1985 and based at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii, the squadron provides rapid response capabilities for heavy construction and repair in support of both peacetime and wartime operations. Over the years, the 201st has deployed personnel and equipment across the Pacific and globally, supporting humanitarian missions, disaster relief, and contingency operations. Renowned for their expertise and adaptability, the unit plays a vital role in enhancing the Air Force's operational infrastructure and readiness.

2164 Communications Squadron was established in the mid-20th century to provide reliable communications support to operational commands. Over the decades, the unit played a vital role in enabling secure and rapid transmission of information during both peacetime and conflict, supporting joint and multinational exercises. The squadron was known for its expertise in radio, satellite, and digital communications, adapting to evolving technologies and mission requirements. As part of broader military reorganizations, 2164 Communications Squadron was eventually integrated into a larger communications group, leaving a legacy of excellence and innovation in military communications.

The 2179th Communications Group was a United States Air Force unit established during the Cold War era to provide critical communications support to Air Force operations. Activated in the late 1950s, the group managed and maintained communications infrastructure, ensuring secure and reliable transmission of information for command and control functions. Stationed primarily at key overseas bases, the 2179th played a vital role in supporting both peacetime and contingency missions. The unit was eventually inactivated as part of broader organizational restructuring and technological advancements in military communications.

The 2nd Security Forces Squadron (2d SFS) is a United States Air Force unit assigned to Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, under the 2nd Bomb Wing. The squadron traces its lineage to the base security units established during World War II, evolving through various designations as Air Police and Security Police before adopting its current title. The 2d SFS is tasked with providing integrated base defense, protecting personnel, resources, and aircraft—particularly the B-52 Stratofortress bombers stationed at Barksdale. Over the decades, the unit has deployed worldwide in support of operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom, earning recognition for its commitment to security and force protection.

The 3380th Security Police Squadron was a United States Air Force unit stationed at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi. Activated during the Cold War era, the squadron was responsible for providing law enforcement, security, and base defense for one of the Air Force’s major technical training centers. Throughout its service, the 3380th Security Police played a crucial role in safeguarding personnel, assets, and sensitive operations at Keesler AFB. The unit was eventually inactivated or redesignated as part of broader Air Force restructuring and modernization efforts in the late 20th century.

The 363rd Fighter Wing was first activated during World War II as the 363rd Fighter Group in 1943, serving in the European Theater with the Ninth Air Force and flying reconnaissance and escort missions. After the war, the unit underwent several redesignations, including a period as a tactical reconnaissance wing during the Cold War. It became the 363rd Tactical Fighter Wing, operating from Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina, where it flew aircraft such as the F-4 Phantom II and later the F-16 Fighting Falcon. The wing played an active role in Operation Desert Storm in 1991, conducting combat missions over Iraq and Kuwait. The 363rd was inactivated in 1993, but its heritage continues through various successor units.

The 405th Combat Support Group was an essential unit of the United States Air Force, originally activated in the mid-20th century. It provided critical base operations and logistical support for flying and combat operations, particularly for the 405th Fighter Wing. The group was stationed at Clark Air Base in the Philippines during the height of the Cold War, playing a key role in maintaining operational readiness in the Pacific theater. Throughout its service, the 405th Combat Support Group contributed significantly to the effectiveness and sustainability of U.S. Air Force missions in Southeast Asia before its inactivation.

The 438th Aerial Port Squadron was activated as part of the United States Air Force Reserve and has played a vital role in air mobility operations. Established during the Cold War era, the unit provided rapid cargo and personnel movement in support of both peacetime and contingency missions. Over the years, the 438th participated in various exercises and deployments, supporting operations such as Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and humanitarian relief missions. Known for its efficiency and adaptability, the 438th Aerial Port has contributed significantly to the Air Force’s global airlift capabilities.

The 438th Military Airlift Wing (MAW) was an active unit of the United States Air Force, originally established in the Air Force Reserve in 1949. It was activated during the Korean War, providing vital airlift support for troops and equipment. The wing was later re-designated and stationed at McGuire Air Force Base, New Jersey, where it played a key role in worldwide airlift operations, including humanitarian missions and support for global contingencies. The 438th MAW was inactivated in the 1990s as part of post-Cold War force reductions, with its legacy carried on by successor mobility and airlift units.

The 460th Field Maintenance Squadron (460th FMS) was an essential support unit within the United States Air Force, primarily associated with the 460th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing. Activated during the Cold War, the squadron was responsible for the maintenance and repair of aircraft and equipment, ensuring operational readiness for reconnaissance missions. Stationed at bases such as Tan Son Nhut Air Base in Vietnam, the 460th FMS played a crucial role in supporting aerial reconnaissance operations during the Vietnam War. The squadron's expertise in aircraft maintenance contributed significantly to the effectiveness and sustainability of U.S. Air Force missions in Southeast Asia.

The **46th Communications Group** was a United States Air Force unit primarily responsible for providing communications and information systems support. Activated during the Cold War era, the group played a critical role in ensuring secure and reliable communication channels for command and control functions. It was assigned to various major commands over its history, supporting both tactical and strategic operations, including deployments and exercises. The unit underwent several redesignations and inactivations as the Air Force reorganized its communications and information infrastructure in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.

The **555th Tactical Fighter Squadron (TFS)**, known as the "Triple Nickel," was activated during World War II and later distinguished itself during the Vietnam War as part of the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing. Flying F-4 Phantom II aircraft, the squadron became one of the highest scoring MiG-killer units, earning a reputation for air combat excellence. In addition to air superiority missions, the 555th TFS also conducted ground attack and close air support operations. After Vietnam, the squadron continued its service in Europe, and today, as the 555th Fighter Squadron, it operates F-16 Fighting Falcons from Aviano Air Base, Italy, supporting NATO and U.S. Air Force missions.